In Oakland, Batts' former post, police reforms criticized

New Baltimore police commissioner said hands were often tied

October 09, 2012|By Justin Fenton, The Baltimore Sun

Henderson has increased the oversight authority of a court-appointed monitor. Jordan now must consult with the monitor before making important department decisions such as promoting and disciplining officers, and changing policing policy and tactics.

In an interview last month, Batts said the court monitor was counterproductive. "I had to call the monitor twice a week, and I had to ask permission and he had to say, 'OK' " before moves could be made, Batts said. "Crime does not wait."

"I do think we had progress there," he said when asked about Oakland during his introduction at Baltimore City Hall in August.

Last week's motion cites the agency's clash with Occupy Oakland protesters, which occurred about two weeks after Batts stepped down. The city hired the Frazier Group, led by former Baltimore and San Jose chief Thomas Frazier, to review the department's response and to independently investigate some of the misconduct claims stemming from it.

The Frazier Group's report, according to the attorneys, cited "command turnover," staffing cuts, and a lack of "succession planning" for future leaders.